My Overall Impression (Score of 85.0%)

I’ve been attempting to drink more green teas for the variety and antioxidants.  The hardest part is figuring out what to drink.  I do not mind grassy, but I also do not want to feel like I’m chewing on it either. 

Awhile back, I purchased this Dragonwell from Teasource since it was on sale and had an interesting description.  Digging through my stash, I decided that I wanted (no Needed) some variety in what I’ve been drinking.  Again, I need to trust my instincts more.  This Vintage Dragonwell fully reminds me of green tea in an Asian Restaurant.  It’s always good, never gets bitter as it sits and is inviting. 

This one is smooth and has a touch of bitterness on the finish (I like a touch of bitterness for contrast).  Overall, it’s a great tea for the price point.  As of writing this, Teasource is out of stock, but I have it on my list for when it comes back in.  It’s a lovely blend that I will turn to when I cook Asian cuisine or use pesto.

What do I think this Tea’s Personality is?

• I’m sitting in my favorite Asian restaurant sipping on tea waiting for my order.

The Price

The price on 4/1/22 is $10 for 2 oz or 56.7 grams.

Broken down:

• 56 gm / 3 gm for steeping = 18 brews
• 18 brews from package = app. 56 cents per brew

Typically, I double steep all my teas (use the tea twice) so I can get 36 cups or approximately 28 cents per cup.  Great price for the value. 

Aromas

• In the package, its aroma reminds you of green dried alfalfa with peppery notes, some mustiness and dried spinach.
• There is no fruit apparent but it’s a bit herb with some seaweed.
• Once brewed, it shows big seaweed notes, with alfalfa, green herbs mixed with sea air (kind of briny notes from the ocean).
• It shows small hints of mint, parsley, rosemary oil, sage, thyme, moss, and baby’s breath.

Flavors

• The first sip brings large amounts of green malt flavor with lighter notes of Nori sheets and surprisingly, Kiwi fruit.
• It shows hints of citrus, saltiness, dried basil, and marjoram.
• You can say the flavor is a bit one dimensional but it’s a great combination.
• It has a smooth creamy texture on the palate with a slight dusty texture (like soft oatmeal).
• It has a biscuit sweetness. This with the acidity and smooth mouthfeel, medium body and tannins keeps bringing you back for more sips.

Scores

• Aromas (4.4/5)
• Flavors (8.3/10)
• Overall impression (4.3/5)
  • Total score = 85.0 percent (17.0/20)

Foods to Pair and Why

• Of course, after drinking this, I was craving Sushi with nori I personally love either tuna or salmon rolls.
• I’m not sure why this popped in my brain, but a salad would pair great with this. However, 10% of the lettuce needs to be bitter (such as a curly endive) with most of mix comprised of butter lettuce for the texture.
• I was recently in Wisconsin so yes, I had to purchase cheese. This brew would work amazingly with a softened brie with fresh herbs in lettuce cups.
• I’m waiting for the weather to get a bit better to grill. First item on the list will be pesto marinated chicken thighs (with crispy skin) to serve alongside this brew.
• A fresh fruit tart of Kiwi with a lightly sweetened custard would be fantastic with this.
• Lastly, this one is dangerous. Sauteed asparagus (pencil thin ones) in brown butter to link the nutty notes as a contrast with the brew.